Written by

Detroit Free Press Sports Writer

Sure, the Detroit Lions could trade up in the first round to land one of the NFL draft’s top players. Or they could trade down to accumulate more picks. But if they stay put at No. 10, here are three ways they can address some of their many needs in the first two days of the draft next week:

The dream scenario

First round: WR Mike Evans

Second round: OLB Kyle Van Noy

Third round: S Jaylen Watkins

How it happens: Evans slides past Tampa Bay and Buffalo, so the Lions fill their need at receiver early and turn their attention to defense on Day 2. Van Noy visited last week and fills a major need, while Watkins can play cornerback or safety and eventually will start at the latter position.

The backup plan

First round: OLB Anthony Barr

Second round: S Jimmie Ward

Third round: WR Jarvis Landry

How it happens: With the top receivers and offensive tackles gone, the Lions take a chance on a high-upside pass rusher who helps diversify their defense at outside linebacker. In the second round, they address a big need in the secondary, then land a sure-handed and undervalued receiver in the third.

The safe route

First round: CB Justin Gilbert

Second round: DT Dominique Easley

Third round: WR Paul Richardson

How it happens: Evans and the tackles are gone again, but rather than bet on Barr’s upside, the Lions take the super athletic Gilbert, who can help in the secondary and return kicks. Easley would have been a first-round pick if not for a knee injury, and he adds insurance at tackle. Richardson is a burner who completes the receiving corps.